Robyn Goodman on ‘Slumdog Millionaire’

Hats off to Danny Boyle and Simon Beaufoy for creating a joyous and heartbreaking film filled with all the horrors and triumphs of a life of poverty. This Dickensian fable beautifully juxtaposes brutality against romance and compassion. With gorgeous color and heart-thumping music, they deliver a complex story in a surprising and satisfying way. I couldn’t help but think that the boy, Jamal, might have recently experienced the horrific violence in Mumbai. No doubt he would react with the same wit and decency that enabled his character’s survival in the face of his tortuous journey. Cynicism be damned. I will take an inspirational story every time.

Robyn Goodman produced “Avenue Q,” “In the Heights,” “Altar Boyz” and the upcoming Broadway revival of “West Side Story,” to open March 19.